Opposing Forces

I've had friends who were choked by the expectations and needs of others.
The hands reaching out in the names of "Love" and "Care" grappling for the throat. With every move toward individuality the hands tighten their grasp, wanting only to keep things as they are. Impulsive reaction causes conformity. Act to please, talk to please, and live to please. The situation does not change.
The ruse is not difficult at first. Surely moments can be found to be one's self away from the grip. This cannot last for long. Things will change. Right?
No. Identity is formed in the mold of hands clasped tight. Life goes on dying. Conformity is accepted. This is the way things are.
Time becomes restless. At the least relaxation of the knuckle, drastic release is found. Change. Find Change! Where is it? All of it. Any of it. RUN!
Who is this? Do I know you? I remember you, but something is different; something the size of everything.
"Love" only wanted to keep safe. Was "Care" not trying to protect? Each holding tight to comfort and defend. Now one is left far away and the other right behind. Both reaching; believing they give.
Far gone. Lost in the abyss of freedom. Staying away from hands. Hands hurt. Love? Love cuts and scars. Care? Care comes with a great price. Nothing good is free, and there is nothing left to give. What can be had for nothing? This looks good.